Sliding Windows: Advantages and Disadvantages

Unlike some traditional single- or double-hung windows, sliding windows open horizontally instead of vertically. Sliding windows, also called as sliders, could be a superior choice for your home or business depending on the lighting and ventilation needs. Sliding windows offer many benefits that may appeal to you as they are available in a wide variety of colors, styles, materials and finishes.

In comparison to double-hung windows Sliding windows are much larger than them. Since our eyes see from side-to-side instead of up-and-down, a larger sliding window offers a natural view of the outside world. If you want to savor the outdoor panorama or scenic view, sliding windows are the best option to opt for. Of course, a larger window also allows more natural light and greater ventilation.

Advantages

One of the key functions of a window is to let fresh air from outside to enter your home. If a window is difficult to operate, you are less likely to bother to open it.

Fortunately, sliding windows are very easy to operate. Usually, one side glides on rollers while the other side (pane of glass) stays immobile.

In relation to other types of windows, Sliding Windows requires less maintenance and as it has a few moving parts it is energy efficient too. With right installation, sliders of the sliding windows are expected to last for several years. It can be easily disassembled (glass pane) for cleaning or to create some space for a window air conditioner. For easy cleaning, some sliders can also be inclined at certain angles.

Slider windows slide horizontally along the window frame and are similar to double-hung windows, but they open sideways rather than up and down.

As Sliding windows have fewer parts than the regular windows, it makes them cost-efficient and low maintenance.

Sliding windows are more durable than conventional windows as it doesn’t have parts like springs or pulleys which stops working or which falls flat after some time. The majority of slider windows uses window glazing too, which adds to its robustness. Window glazing enhances insulation and energy efficiency. This will lead to lower energy bills over a period of time.

Sliding windows require very less power and know-how to open and close it. They are light in weight and slides along the window frame with ease. In order to use it, you just have to set loose the latch and slide the window open.

Disadvantage

Vacuuming the inward part of slider windows is pretty simple, but cleansing the outside can be a difficult task, particularly during winter times. Unlike Sliding windows which only slide from side to side, other types of windows can be inclined inward for easy cleaning.

Many people slide open the window by touching the glass pane itself. This leaves fingerprints on them and has to be cleaned often. Sliding windows are not energy efficient.

Sliding windows are designed for horizontal openings only so for the vertical openings you may want to opt for double hung or casement styles.